LUXEMBOURG (WLUK) — Program history was made last week as Luxemburg-Casco won its first Level 3 playoff game, beating previously undefeated Two Rivers.
What’s waiting for the Spartans in their first Level 4 game ever? Perennial power Catholic Memorial, which is making its 11th appearance in the state semifinal game since 2000. In addition, the Crusaders have won five state titles, all since 2012, and have made nine state championship game appearances, including the last two (won state title in 2021, runner-up in 2022).
Luxembourg-Casco coach Neil Seering says, however, reaching this stage of the playoffs is special, no matter who the Spartans play.
“It means the world to us, the community, the families, the kids,” he said. “It’s been great, it’s been a little bit overwhelming with the excitement. A lot more people talking to me which is great, but it’s a testament to the kids, the assistant coaches and everyone who has put their time into the program.
“I actually reached out to all the kids I coached the last four years and prior to that for anything they want to say to the kids. It’s not just this year, it’s everyone included.
“The whole brotherhood of belief. It’s not something that’s on a wristband or on a poster, it’s written on our hearts. So anyone I’ve coached is part of this with me and everyone else involved and that’s why it’s so exciting for us. “
Looking back at the Level 3 24-21 win over Two Rivers, Seering knows his team was the perceived underdog. He was excited how his kids played.
“It was a great win for our kids,” he said. “Not many people were giving us (a chance). They fought through it. We had a huge drive at the end and also a defensive stop. Just a testament to the kids and the whole team in general. Great win for our kids. “
The No. 3 seed Spartans (11-2) are the underdog once again in Friday’s Division 4 Level 4 game against the No. 2 Crusaders (10-2), who among their talent have running back Corey Smith, who is headed to Penn State.
“I know what they’re all about, I know what they have,” Seering said. “I also know what we have and I feel that we have a lot of kids that have grit and determination. They’re hard-working kids. It’s a tough area, a blue-collar kind of person and that’s who we are.
“I’m going to coach these kids to the best of my ability and if we do that, we’ll do the best we can.”
SPARTAN NOTES
- LC averages 233 rushing yards per game and allows 116.
- QB Max Ronsman has 1,203 rushing yards and 22 TDs. He also has 1,933 passing yards and 11 TDs.
- LC is one of two North Eastern Conference teams playing in Level 4 (Wrightstown).
- Eleven of LC’s 12 opponents have been held to 21 points or less. LC’s lone loss came to Kewaunee (31-22).
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